Joana Burney

She was born in Akron on May 21, 1946, along with her identical twin, Janet Burney. They were the youngest of six children of the late Veada Howard and Hamp Burney, Jr. As youngsters, the twins dressed alike, making it difficult for most to tell them apart. They were inseparable and did just about everything together.

Affectionately known as "Jodie", she was educated in the Akron Public School System. She attended the Cuyahoga Falls School of Nursing in the 1970's and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. She worked for many years in hospitals and nursing homes. A dedicated caregiver, she always seemed to know just what her patients needed at the right time.

At a young age, Jodie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at St. John CME Church in Akron, where her father was a Trustee. She recently attended Stone Deliverance Evangelical Temple in Akron.

In her spare time, Jodie enjoyed playing card games, especially with her special niece, Stephanie Burney Miller. She was an avid bowler who played in several leagues. She also enjoyed word puzzles, crocheting and watching television, especially westerns, Sanford & Son and Jeopardy. Mostly, Jodie enjoyed spending time with her extended family. One of her favorite pastimes was sitting on the porch with Janet at the family homestead on Haynes Street, drinking Royal Crown (RC) soda pop.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Sonja Lynn Burney; a brother, David Lee Burney, and three sisters, Eva Mae Burney Moss, Ernestine "Tine" Burney Looney and Janet Burney.

Left to cherish fond memories are her daughters, Alisa Burney (Jerry) Walker and Tawanda Burney; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; her only surviving sibling, Alberta Burney Johnson, best friend Mary Ann Howe, and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives who will miss her dearly.

Services were private.